Austria's stunning cultural heritage is best exemplified in its Hofburg, once the home of the Habsburgs from 1273 to 1918. The original part of the palace, the 13th-century Schweizerhof (Swiss Courtyard), was named after the Swiss guards that watched over it. The Renaissance Swiss Gate was introduced in 1553, and is connected to another courtyard, In der Burg, which has a monument to Emperor Franz II in the middle. The building now functions as the office of the president of Austria, and hosts many museums, as well as the preserved Kaiserappartements.